DHEC urges HIV Tests in SC

South Carolina’s Department of Health and Environmental Control announced that more than 15,700 people are living with HIV in the state and urged others to be tested for the virus on World Aids Day, which is today. Everyone is being encouraged to learn their status by being tested for HIV. DHEC reports that more than 500 new HIV infections are identified in South Carolina every year. Health officials said advancements in HIV medications and treatments can help people with HIV live longer, healthier lives, but that people can only benefit from treatment if they learn their HIV status by being tested and then joining a care program.